Cover Feature: Kalbar Sunflower Festival - A Celebration Rooted In Resilience
In the heart of the breathtaking Scenic Rim Region, the annual Kalbar Sunflower Festival unfolds amidst a stunning sea of golden sunflowers. This vibrant celebration, now a beloved tradition, was born out of adversity. In 2021, Jenny and Russell Jenner found themselves grappling with the harsh realities of one of the longest droughts in living memory, threatening their lucerne crops. It was a simple gesture—a bouquet of sunflowers brought home by Russell—that sparked their inspiration. Recognizing the sunflowers’ resilience and beauty, they turned a moment of hardship into a vision that would bloom into something extraordinary.
The journey was not without its challenges. In late 2021, Russell faced a devastating diagnosis of Stage 4 Oesophageal Cancer. His unwavering spirit shone brightly as he helped create joy during the 2022 and 2023 festivals, where an incredible $115,000 was raised for cancer care. Tragically, Russell passed away in July 2023, but his legacy lives on through Jenny’s determination to continue their work.
With an incredible team by her side, Jenny orchestrated the 2024 festival, raising over $130,000 to support vital initiatives, including the employment of a Cancer Care Nurse at Mater Hospital Springfield and the acquisition of cuddle beds for the Boonah Palliative Care Ward, all in memory of Russell. Jenny expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined in this effort to enhance cancer care for those in need.
Meet Jenny: The Heart of Kalbar Sunflowers
Jenny was raised on a dairy farm, and when she married Russell, they left the farm life behind, though Russell was always keen to work the land. In 2006, they purchased their own farm. Alongside their lucerne operation and the blossoming Kalbar Sunflowers venture, Jenny continues to run the lawnmowing business that Russell started in the 1990s. She also finds joy in helping care for her four grandchildren, sharing the responsibilities with her family.
Reflecting on her unexpected journey, Jenny shares, “I never imagined I’d be a farmer, let alone growing sunflowers and organizing a festival each year.” Her favorite aspect of her work is the joy it brings to others, illuminating their lives with the warmth and beauty of sunflowers.
“Farming is a gamble,” she advises aspiring farmers. “Determination and the ability to take risks are essential, as nothing is ever guaranteed when it comes to the weather.”
Looking ahead, Jenny remains committed to her mission, planning future fundraisers to reach even more people with the #sunflowersforgood initiative.
The recent festival marked a milestone, raising $160,000 which goes into funding the cancer care coordinator at Mater Springfield, along with the distribution of three cuddle beds to hospitals across the Southeast Queensland region.
Among the festival highlights was the Sunflower Memorial Rock, which allowed attendees to honor their lost loved ones in a heartfelt manner. Visitors were delighted by new props from the creative team, perfect for capturing memorable moments, while the Devonshire Tea tent and special marquee events offered unforgettable culinary experiences.
Ultimately, it was the sunflowers that stole the show, blooming beautifully just in time for the event, with the sun shining down to create a truly spectacular atmosphere.
As Jenny takes a moment to breathe before her next series of small events, including a Rural Women’s Lunch in September and a Breast Cancer Lunch in October, her heart remains steadfast in its mission. “My passion is for those navigating the cancer journey and palliative care,” she expresses. “I want others to have the precious moments we missed, embracing their loved ones in those final moments together.”
With a spirit as vibrant as the sunflowers she nurtures, Jenny continues to inspire others through resilience, hope, and the beauty of community.
Written by Kickin Up Dust
www.kalbarsunflowers.com.au
👉 This story excerpt is from Issue #21 of Kickin Up Dust magazine: June 2025.
